Unleashing R&D Networks for Ambidexterity : The Interplay between Internal and External Networking Capabilities

Strobl, Andreas and Shepherd, Neil and Hughes, Paul (2025) Unleashing R&D Networks for Ambidexterity : The Interplay between Internal and External Networking Capabilities. Industrial Marketing Management, 124. pp. 254-265. ISSN 0019-8501

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Abstract

Ambidexterity is key for SME survival and success, and to attain ambidexterity, resource constrained SMEs must leverage ideas and resources within their R&D networks. This research investigates how internal and external networking capabilities enable SMEs to harness their R&D network to attain ambidexterity. We test our theory using survey data from 126 SMEs from Austria, Liechtenstein, and Switzerland. Our findings reveal an important paradox: while external networking capabilities are crucial for attaining ambidexterity, internal networking capabilities come at a cost—and while they do directly contribute to ambidexterity, they also lessen the potential for firms to utilize their R&D networks to attain ambidexterity. We discuss the important theoretical and managerial implications in terms of how SMEs can most effectively harness their networks to attain ambidexterity.